Berkeley River Lodge, a luxury resort in Western Australia's Kimberley region, has officially reopened its doors six months after tropical cyclone Fina caused extensive damage. The category three storm tore through the site in late November, leaving five of the 20 guest villas unrecognisable and causing significant damage to the uninsured property.
Rebuild and Refurbishment
The reconstruction effort involved 38 tradesmen, eight barges, and 54 flights delivering new furniture and upgrades over a six-month period. Contractors, including electricians and builders, were flown to the remote site within a week of the cyclone. The resort also completed original refurbishments that were disrupted by the storm, including upgrades to the pool deck and Dunes Restaurant.
New Features and Experiences
The resort has introduced Morning Movement Sessions, offering pool-side yoga, pilates, and breathwork at sunrise. The revered Kimberley Spa returns in a new mobile form, providing one-hour treatments using native botanicals. General manager Hannah Wark described the rebuild as 'the most remarkable milestone,' noting that the resort collaborated with Perth's Empire Home to curate a refined, remote sanctuary.
Despite some remaining scars from the cyclone, the lodge promises an even more luxurious experience with custom furniture, artisanal details, and open-air ensuite vanities. Berkeley River Lodge, accessible only by air or sea, earned the title of 'Australia's most remote luxury resort' prior to the disaster.
